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[A validated finite element model of the human spine--description of the model and initial application]
T Pitzen1, D Matthis, W I Steudel
1Neurochirurgische Klinik, Universitätskliniken des Saarlandes, 66421 Homburg/Saar. pitzen@handshake.de
Aim:
To generate a finite-element model of the human cervical spine and evaluate the first application of the model to the analysis of new c-spine implants.
Methods:
CT-data were used to generate a three-dimensional, anisotrophic, linear model of the human C4-C7 motion segments using the software ANSYS 5.4. As a next step, anterior cervical fusion and plate fixation using mono- and bicortical screws was simulated in the model. Loading of the finite-element models was simulated using pure moments of +/- 2.5 Nm in flexion/extension, axial left/right rotation, and left/right lateral bending. The range of motion was calculated. The results were compared to the results of an in vitro study using human cadaveric c-spine segments C4-C7, with the same implants and moments on both the intact and surgically treated specimens.
Results:
The results obtained by the finite-element model were always within one standard deviation of the results of the in vitro study.
Conclusion:
Keeping in mind the simplifications of such a mathematical model, it may be used for a first analysis of the shape of new c-spine implants or to predict the initial stability of a new device.